The EPT at OIT comprises a battery of proficiency tests. It is an objective, multiple-choice paper or computer-based examination that tests listening comprehension, grammar and structure, reading and writing abilities and oral communication proficiency. The scores from each of the four sections of the EPT (English Placement Test) are converted to an overall score on a 100 point scale. Students are then placed by the admissions counselors into one of the five ESL levels corresponding to their scores.

The assessment, evaluation and reporting system at OIT is based on the IELTS testing policies. It aims to set high standards of achievement for all students and promotes consistency in teaching and learning.
The levels of achievement are associated with the following IELTS band scale:

7.0-7.5 FLUENT USER – Has operational command of the language with occasional inaccuracies, and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.

6.0-6.5 COMPETENT USER – Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

5.0-5.5 MODERATE USER – Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field.

4.0-4.5 LIMITED USER – Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has a frequent problem in understanding and expression. Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations.

Achievement Levels
OIT has incorporated the IELTS band scale to correspond to the ESL Levels offered at the College.
IELTS 7.0 Advanced Level 96 or higher
IELTS 6.5 High Intermediate Level 86-95%
IELTS 6.0 Intermediate Level 66-85%
IELTS 5.5 Low Intermediate Level 31-65%
IELTS 5.0 or below Basic Level 0-30%

You must go to the Registrar’s Office to book, cancel or reschedule your test date.
To book your English Placement Test, go to the Registrar’s Office in person, at the front reception counter, to sign up for a paper-based EPT, and then go to the cashier to pay for your test. International students may take the EPT online overseas at an authorized agent’s place through online monitoring and administration system managed by an OIT overseas office staff.

Eligible students may book the EPT in person, over the phone and online. A valid Photo ID, a valid OIT student number, and an original copy of the Letter of Acceptance and an official receipt of the payment of the CAD$300.00 registration fee must be produced to the authorized agent or an OIT overseas office staff to initiate the registration and booking process. You will receive an EPT Permit, an official receipt and an information sheet, which you will need to take to your scheduled testing session.

Students need to bring their OIT ID Card or a valid photo ID (e.g., passport), a valid OIT student number, and an original copy of the Letter of Acceptance and an official receipt of the payment of the CAD$300.00 registration fee. They should also have two, sharpened pencils and a black or blue ballpoint pen for the test.

Students MAY NOT use dictionaries or other reference materials (paper or electronic) during the test. There should be NO cell phone usage during the test.

All students who are taking the EPT will be able to pick up their results in person at the Registrar’s Office at 4620 Finch Avenue East. Copies of the EPT results will also be distributed to students’ guidance counsellors and faculty advisors. Students with questions about their English Placement Test results can stop by the Dean’s Office between 9 and 11 am, Monday to Friday, to speak with the Dean or the Director of English Testing in person or to discuss online at ept@oitedu.ca.

With the exception of students who have been conferred a two-year college diploma, or a bachelor or a master degree from a university or a college where English is the official language of instruction, or have demonstrated English language proficiency with proof from an internationally recognized English test, all students whose first language is not English are required to take the ESL Placement Test. This test must be taken prior to the commencement of classes to determine the appropriate ESL level and the appropriate English course a student should register.

Students may be exempted from taking the ESL placement test ONLY if they meet one of the Following criteria:

• Hold a degree from an accredited college or university where the language of instruction is strictly English AND in a country where English is an official language;
• Are a native of one of the following countries:
  • Australia,
  • English speaking Canadian provinces,
  • English speaking Caribbean island nations,
  • the Republic of Ireland,
  • the United Kingdom,
  • New Zealand
• Entered the United States prior to middle school;
• Received transfer credit for a English-speaking university-level composition course;
• Earned the following scores on one of the following internationally recognized English proficiency tests: